Food Storage - How long can you keep...

SNAPPER - FRESH, RAW

Tips

How long does raw snapper last in the fridge or freezer? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep snapper refrigerated at all times.

How long does raw snapper last after the sell-by date? After snapper is purchased, it may be refrigerated for 1 to 2 days - the "sell-by" date on the package may expire during that storage period, but the snapper will remain safe to use after the sell by date if it has been properly stored.

Unopened raw snapper may be kept in its original store packaging when refrigerating; to maximize the shelf life of snapper, do not open the package until ready to use.

How long can raw snapper be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; snapper should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

To further extend the shelf life of raw snapper, freeze; when freezing, place snapper in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.

You can maximize the shelf life of snapper in the freezer by overwrapping the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper or place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag in order to prevent freezer burn.

How long does raw snapper last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 6 to 8 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.

The freezer time shown is for best quality only - snapper that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.

How long does raw snapper last after being frozen and thawed? Snapper that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator before cooking; snapper that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be cooked immediately.

How long does snapper last in the fridge once it is cooked? Cooked snapper will usually stay good for 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 4 months in the freezer.

How to tell if raw snapper is bad? The best way is to smell and look at the snapper: signs of bad snapper are a sour smell, dull color and slimy texture; discard any snapper with an off smell or appearance.